Page 60 of Through the Storm

Dinner is loud but shockingly normal and easy. But every time I relax, I remember I almost didn’t get a seat at this table.

Declan tells a story about him and Katy in middle school. Ellacorrects him twice. Grandma Patty insists everyone should eat more. And Danny stations himself directly under my chair like he usually does because he knows I’m weak.

At one point, Katy leans over and murmurs, “You shouldn’t keep feeding him.”

“He threatens me with his eyes,” I whisper back.

She snorts. A real laugh that hits me straight in the chest. I’d take that sound over a touchdown crowd any day.

Declan watches us with clear approval, like he’s proud of me for… existing politely.

“So,” he says casually, cutting into his steak. “You’ve been a big help lately, Ben.”

I choke on my water.

“I mean,” Declan continues, “showing up, being solid. I appreciate it.”

Katy stiffens for half a second, then relaxes.

“Yeah.” Her voice is quiet. “He has.”

The worst part is, I want to deserve that. Declan’s approval and appreciation, and Katy’s most of all.

Ella’s gaze flicks between us, sharp but unreadable.

I keep my mouth shut. Do not ruin the moment. Do not say anything. Do not look guilty.

Grandma Patty beams. “See? I told you he was a keeper.”

Ella’s fork pauses midair. Declan keeps eating, unfazed.

I let out the breath I was holding.

“Katy, when’s your next scan?” Grandma Patty asks.

“Tuesday. It’s a follow-up anatomy scan.”

Ella perks up. “So… this might finally be the one?”

Katy smiles nervously. “If the baby decides to cooperate this time.”

“Cooperate?” I ask, utterly confused.

“Well, I wanted to find out if it’s a boy or a girl, but the baby wouldn’t let the doctors see during the last scan. Legs crossed, spineturned, the whole diva routine.” Katy explains.

I laugh. “Oh, got it. Already a troublemaker.”

“You should come,” she blurts out. “I mean… if you want to.”

I grin, and for a moment, the world blurs. “Really?”

Declan’s head snaps up. “But I’m taking you.”

Ella very helpfully intervenes. “You can both come! I’m sure the baby will love all this attention and support. Right, Declan?”

“Yeah, okay,” he agrees. Very reluctantly. But I don’t care, I’m too excited.

Later, when dessert’s on the table and Katy’s cheeks are flushed from laughing, she nudges my knee under the table.